The annual Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi will begin on October 30, 2026, in Al Wathba South and run for 136 days until March 14, 2027. The event will feature cultural programmes, international pavilions, fireworks displays and a wide range of family entertainment.

The festival will be held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and under the supervision of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

New attractions at the 2026–2027 Sheikh Zayed Festival

The new edition will feature additional music and theatre performances, art and photography exhibitions, and aerial light shows with new designs.

Leading Arab and regional artists will also perform on the festival’s main stage during weekend programmes.

Weekly fireworks and laser shows

Key attractions will include the Heritage Village, displays of Emirati customs and handicrafts, folklore performances, the Emirates Fountain and laser shows.

Fireworks displays will take place every Saturday and on special occasions, including UAE National Day and New Year’s Eve.

Previous editions of the festival have set several Guinness World Records with their fireworks and drone displays.

Throughout the season, the festival will also host themed events focusing on plants, livestock, food, flowers and honey. Special programmes for the UAE’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations and Ramadan nights will also form part of the event.

Iran among more than 15 countries and regions at the festival

More than 15 countries and regions will have dedicated pavilions at the new edition, including Iran, India, China, Japan, Türkiye, Morocco, Egypt, Pakistan, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Iraq, Yemen and Syria, as well as GCC countries and representatives from parts of the Americas and the Levant.

Festival dates, location and tickets
Start date: October 30, 2026
End date: March 14, 2027
Location: Al Wathba South, Abu Dhabi
Opening days: Daily

Official website and ticket booking: zayedfestival.ae